Markha trek, Ladakh – day 0

trip report by besthike editor Rick McCharles

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I flew Delhi to Leh in September (the best month) to circumambulate the most famous mountain in the area, Stok Kangri.

AT A GLANCE

• the most popular hike in Ladahk, northern India, bordering Tibet
• easy access out of Leh
• 6-8 days
• 111km (69mi)
• early June to mid-October
• moderate-demanding
• big risk of altitude sickness
• 2-3 high passes (4900m-5200m)
• several nights at very high altitude
• sleep in tent or in “homestays”
• frequent flights from Delhi. Infrequent flights from Srinagar and Jammu.
• hike independently or with a Guide
• check the confusing tourist visa requirements for India. Some nations can get a visa-on-arrival at airports.

Nobody speaks about hiking distance in the Himalaya. Only altitude truly matters. Markha ranges from 3190m – 5287m.

Acclimation is critical.

I spent 3 nights in dusty, cluttered Leh. And a 4th day cycling from the highest road pass – 38kms back to town.

I was hoping 4 days would be long enough to successfully start from Stok, rather than the usual place – Zingchen.

I’ll leave my luggage locked up in a Leh hotel. And try for a solo, independent, tenting week in the high mountains.

Wish me luck. 🙂

See all my high resolution photos from this day on flickr.

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